By Dr. Meghna Bansal, Psychology
Depression has been a major issue especially among teenagers now-a-days. It has increased from over a century till now. It has also increased a number a disorders in teenagers including mental dis-functioning, rapid weight loss or weight gain and many others. A better understanding of depression can do a world of good to us.
What is a teenage depression?
Teenage depression is a serious mental disorder or brain illness commonly referred to adolescent depression. It has a serious impact on mental health that also hinders a person’s thinking, feeling and emotional capabilities.
How can you spot the depression in teens?
There are lot of signs and symptoms that may lead to depression diagnosis. These may include:
- Appetite changes.
- Feeling sad, irritable, or tearful.
- Rapid weight-gain or weight loss.
- Lack of interest in activities.
- Decrease in energy.
- Facing difficulty in concentration.
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness.
- Insomnia.
- Regular complaints of boredom.
- Suicidal attempts.
- Lack of interaction among friends.
- Having bad school performance.
For a better understanding let’s get to know its causes-
A number of causes take part in airing depression among teenagers. Some of them are:
- Brain Changes: One of the main causes is the abnormal activity of the brain in which the brain starts exhibiting irregularities in mood and behavior.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes also affect the mental health e.g. lack of estrogens or testosterones or went through a hormonal therapy.
- Traumatic Life Incidents: Traumatic incidents like loss of a parent or physical, emotional, or sexual abuse can leave lasting effects on a child’s brain that could contribute to depression.
- Family History: Children who have close relatives with depression, especially a parent or siblings, are more likely to have depression themselves.
- Negative Thinking: Those teens that are constantly exposed to pessimist approach from their parents are more liable to adapt negative thoughts and develop depression.
What are the available treatments for teen depression?
- Use of antidepressants.
- Psychotherapies.
- Sound Sleep.
- Balanced diet.
- Exercise.
- Abstain Excess Caffeine Intake.
- Avoid alcohol.
If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult a psychologist and ask a free question.